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Telling Canadian Stories: Métis Screenwriter Penny Gummerson

November 24, 2016

First, we invite you to watch this video — we think as a fellow Canadian you will be moved. It's all about telling Canadian stories. And telling Canadians stories, stories that travel the world. Canadian screenwriters are among the best. They’re the only creators who reflect a Canadian perspective for audiences at home and around the globe — on all screens. The WGC is proud to present the first in a short series of animated videos featuring Canadian screenwriters sharing personal anecdotes. You’ll find out why they’re passionate about what they do, and where they live. First, Penny Gummerson, award-winning Métis screenwriter (Strange Empire, Arctic Air, Heartland, Moccasin Flats) tells her story. Please watch, and share.

WGC Canadian Content in a Digital World Submission

November 25, 2016

The WGC has filed a submission with the Department of Heritage “Canadian Content in a Digital World” consultations. The consultations tackle some very difficult questions, and the WGC has responded on numerous fronts, including the following.

Jim Burt Screenwriting Prize Accepting Entries

October 17, 2016

The call for entries for the Jim Burt Screenwriting Prize is now open to both WGC members and non-members. Entrants must be Canadian citizens residing in Canada, and possess a writing credit on a produced drama (including shorts) or webseries. Screenplay entries must be unproduced longform, feature-length screenplays; an original work of the applicant and not based, in whole or part, on another author’s work; and not be under option prior to, or during, the competition.To see further entry criteria, and to access the entry form please click here. Deadline for entries is Friday, Feb. 10, 2017 at 5:30 p.m. EST.

WGC Executive Director Sets Record Straight

November 22, 2016

In a Playback article titled "The value in 10-out-of-10," WGC Executive Director Maureen Parker sets the record straight about the importance of maintaining the Canada Media Fund (CMF) as a 10-out-of-10-point fund. And she explains what the real, underlying reason is for the ongoing anger in the industry that was sparked by the CRTC's Certified Independent Production Funds (CIPF) decision in August, 2016. Read it at Playback Online (subscription required).

Call for Entries: 21st WGC Screenwriting Awards

October 14, 2016

Members, it's time to submit your scripts for the 21st annual WGC Screenwriting Awards! Login to the members' website to nominate a script, and get full details on the 2017 Awards Nominations page. This year the special awards include the Jim Burt Screenwriting Prize, the Showrunner Award, and the Sondra Kelly Award. There's also a new awards category, "Best Script from a Rookie Series." The complete category list is as follows.

WTTV: Cardinal, with Showrunner Aubrey Nealon

November 3, 2016

The Writers Guild of Canada presents Writers Talking TV on Nov. 22 at TIFF Bell Lightbox, featuring Cardinal showrunner, Aubrey Nealon, and hosted by Carol Hay (Murdoch Mysteries, Shoot The Messenger). This is a special sneak peek, as Cardinal is not yet on the air. Make sure not to miss it! The event is free and open to the public, but space is limited so be sure to RSVP to secure a seat. Full details follow.

Key Points for Screenwriters: Government CanCon Consultation

October 27, 2016

If you haven't yet responded to the government's consultations process, “Canadian Content in a Digital World,” members can login to the WGC website first to view some key points for screenwriters. Then go to the consultations website to share your thoughts, by clicking on "Have Your Say."

Canadians Write World Class Shows

November 1, 2016

As the Department of Heritage's "Canadian Content in a Digital World" consultations continue, it's good to be reminded of some of the success Canadian programs have had to date. It's also good to be reminded that this success stems from the talents of the Canadian showrunners and screenwriters who create the scripts Canadian programs are built on. Here are just ten examples of that success.

Save the Date: WGC Holiday Parties

October 17, 2016

Members, the WGC holiday party dates are set for Toronto and Vancouver. Save the date, and come out and celebrate with your fellow screenwriters, industry invitees, and WGC council and staff. The details: